If we had a time machine I imagine many of us would go back and wonder what we could have said or done differently to change the outcome? The truth, at least in my case, is that I don’t know if anyone could have stopped me.
At that time I was determined, I lied and deceived to be able to achieve my goal of not being here anymore. My internal pain just had to stop. Luckily, my sister found me and saved my life. A day I am sure she will never forget too.
At Pathways, we support some of the most vulnerable people in Chesterfield. Many come to us in the midst of a mental health crisis, caught on that painful rollercoaster of despair, uncertainty and overwhelming emotion.
Our staff are trained to do everything they can to support someone in those moments. We listen — really listen. We try to help people find a way through what they are experiencing, we take action when necessary, and we work closely with other mental health services to ensure people receive the appropriate support. On many occasions, we have also called ambulances when someone’s safety has been at immediate risk.
Sometimes a person doesn’t need to be fixed or given all the answers. They simply need to know that, for that moment, they are not alone. That someone is prepared to sit with them, hear what they have to say without judgement, and give them the time and space they need to get through the immediate crisis.
